The Funeral Celebration

We are very sorry for your Loss. May the Lord bless and strength youat this challenging moment. Please, let us assist youwith the funeral planning.

What Should I Do When a Loved One Dies?Most of the times in our area, the Funeral Home will assist you calling us for the funeral arrangements. Please see next column the information about the local mortuaries.​1. The Vigil or Wake(Best time for eulogies)This Rite, presided over by a priest, deacon, or prepared layperson (or member of the family) generally consists of: Introductory Rite, Liturgy of the Word, Intercessory Prayer and Concluding Rite and Blessing. The rosary, or a portion of it, may be included as part of the petitions within this Rite, or preferably, it may be recited by the family at a time other than the Vigil. Usually Vigils or Wake are with open casket.

2. The Funeral LiturgyThe Funeral Liturgy (Mass) is the community's principal celebration. Generally, the Funeral Liturgy comprises: The Rite of Reception (unless already celebrated as part of the Vigil), the Liturgy of the Word, The Liturgy of the Eucharist, and the Final Commendation and Farewell. This celebration is with closed casket.

3. The Rite of CommittalThe Rite of Committal, the final of the Funeral Rites, may be presided over by priest, deacon or layperson. It is best celebrated in close proximity to the actual burial place - grave, tomb or crematorium. This rite is intentionally brief. However, if this is the sole Funeral Rite, it may be expanded to include the Rite of Final Commendation or additional music and readings, a brief homily, and petitions.

Who Should Be Involved in Funeral Preparation?Family members and close friends of the deceased are encouraged to have an active role in preparing and choosing the elements of the Funeral Rites.

Is Cremation Allowed?Although traditional burial procedure which reflects respect for the body is still normal Catholic practice, cremation is allowed by the Catholic Church for justifiable reasons. Cremation would ordinarily take place after the Funeral Liturgy. These remains should never be scattered or handled in a undignified manner, but are to be interred or inurned in a cemetery columbarium; keeping the remains at home is not part of Catholic tradition.

After the Mortuary arrangements, they will assist you in contacting us for an appointment to go over the details of the funeral liturgy.

Usually Funeral Masses at Santa Clara Parish are at 10am on weekdays. We will provide a minister for the Vigil, Funeral Mass, and Internment (Graveside) as long celebrations are local. Please talk to mortuary for all your funeral arrangements.

The times for the services vary. However these are the more common times:Option 1 (Two-day celebration)7pm Vigil/Wake - The night before Mass/Eulogies (Funeral home)10am Funeral Mass* - The day of the burial (Church)11:30am Internments - Graveside liturgy after Holy Mass (Cemetery)

In what language can the Mass be celebrated?Spanish, English, and/or Bilingual.Can a priest friend of the family celebrate the Mass?Yes. However, the family should consider giving him a donation for his services. The parish is committed to supply our own priests. If the priest is not from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, he must bring a "Celebrat" letter from his bishop.

Can a family member or friend guide the Holy Rosary at the Vigil?Yes. It is always encouraged to invite family members or friends.What are the most common symbols used? Are they required?Usually they are Bible, Rosary and Crucifix. They are not required.